Goals from Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen helped Nigeria’s Super Eagles secure a 3-0 victory against Benin Republic in their opening match of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday.
Lookman, recently nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, celebrated his achievement in style by scoring two well-taken goals, putting Nigeria, the 2024 AFCON runners-up, on the right path toward qualifying for the next tournament in Morocco.
Despite Benin’s strong defensive effort, which nearly saw them hold Nigeria to a 0-0 draw in the first half, the Atalanta forward broke the deadlock during added time just before halftime.
Victor Osimhen, who recently joined Galatasaray after a high-profile transfer saga involving Napoli, Chelsea, and Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli, added the third goal.
The reigning African Footballer of the Year showcased his class by scoring a remarkable goal in the 78th minute, shortly after replacing Victor Boniface.
With this victory, the Super Eagles have started their AFCON qualifying campaign in dominant fashion. More details to follow.
